Recently, WZQZ News has received word about a caller ID spoofing scam that is affecting residents in Chattooga County and the surrounding area.  The scammers are attempting to get people’s personal and bank information and are texting people from what appears to be a legitimate phone number.  United Community Bank released a statement last week about the problem.

The bank said that the scammers can use technology to hide their own phone numbers and appear as if they’re calling from your area or even from a number you know—like your bank or the IRS. By posing as banks or legitimate institutions, these criminals are convincing people to give up their personal information like bank account logins, credit card numbers, social security numbers, and PINs.

The bank says, “If you receive a text message or phone call asking for confidential information, it’s a definite red flag. Banks will never ask for your information that way, so end the call or delete the text”.

Here is what the bank says you should do to avoid being a victim of these scams:

• If you receive a text message from someone claiming to be your bank asking you to sign in or offer up your personal information, delete it.
• If you haven’t signed up for text alerts from United, don’t respond to any messages you receive that appear to come from the bank.
• If you receive a phone call from United (or any company) and you’re in doubt that the caller is legitimate, just hang up and call the bank directly at a number you trust.
• If you think you’re the victim of fraud or that someone is attempting to access your personal financial information, contact your bank immediately.

You can read more from United Community Bank HERE